Smart swappable cartridge system for cosmetic dispensing device

ABSTRACT

A system is provided that includes a dispensing device configured to receive at least one cartridge that contains a cosmetic material and to dispense a specified amount of the cosmetic material from the cartridge into a receiving area, the at least one cartridge including an electronic communication and storage device configured to store data regarding the cosmetic material stored in the cartridge. The system includes a mobile user device configured to perform communication with the dispensing assembly to receive information related to the data stored on the electronic communication and storage device and to transmit a command to cause the dispensing assembly to dispense the specified amount of the cosmetic material. The electronic communication and storage device stores data regarding (i) a production process of the at least one cartridge that is created prior to the at least one cartridge initially being inserted into the dispensing device, and (ii) a usage of the at least one cartridge after the at least one cartridge is inserted into the dispensing device.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No.62/968,877, filed Jan. 31, 2020, the entire contents of which areincorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND Field

The disclosure herein generally relates to a system, apparatus, andmethod for determining a combination of cosmetic materials which can beblended and dispensed for a particular user.

SUMMARY

In an embodiment, a system is provided that includes a dispensing deviceconfigured to receive at least one cartridge that contains a cosmeticmaterial and to dispense a specified amount of the cosmetic materialfrom the cartridge into a receiving area, wherein the at least onecartridge includes an electronic communication and storage deviceconfigured to store data regarding the cosmetic material stored in thecartridge; and a mobile user device configured to perform communicationwith the dispensing assembly to receive information related to the datastored on the electronic communication and storage device and totransmit a command to cause the dispensing assembly to dispense thespecified amount of the cosmetic material, wherein the electroniccommunication and storage device stores data regarding (i) a productionprocess of the at least one cartridge that is created prior to the atleast one cartridge initially being inserted into the dispensing device,and (ii) a usage of the at least one cartridge after the at least onecartridge is inserted into the dispensing device.

In an embodiment, the electronic communication and storage device is oneof a near field communication (NFC) tag, a radio frequencyidentification (RFID) tag, and a contact chip.

In an embodiment, the dispensing device includes a communicationinterface for a canal of at least one cartridge is configured tocommunicate with the electronic communication and storage device.

In an embodiment, the dispensing device includes a sensor configured todetect and count an opening and closing of a lid to trigger a consumablereading and change detection process.

In an embodiment, the trigger of the consumable reading and changedetection process initiates a communication process between thedispensing device and the mobile user device.

In an embodiment, the at least one cartridge is a plurality ofcartridges, and the mobile user device receives information on thespecific set of the plurality of cartridges based on receiving datastored on the electronic communication and storage device for each ofthe plurality of cartridges.

In an embodiment, the mobile user device automatically determinespossible color attributes or skincare attributes of that are possiblebased on the plurality of cartridges.

In an embodiment, the mobile user device detects inconsistent or missingcartridges based on the received information on the specific set of theplurality of cartridges.

In an embodiment, the mobile user device is configured to authenticatethe at least one cartridge as being provided by a specific manufacturerbefore allowing any dispensing to occur by the dispensing device.

In an embodiment, a method is provided that is implemented by a systemthat includes a dispensing device configured to receive at least onecartridge that contains a cosmetic material and to dispense a specifiedamount of the cosmetic material from the cartridge into a receivingarea, wherein the at least one cartridge includes an electroniccommunication and storage device configured to store data regarding thecosmetic material stored in the cartridge, and a mobile user device, themethod comprising: performing, by the mobile user device, communicationwith the dispensing assembly to receive information related to the datastored on the electronic communication and storage device andtransmitting a command to cause the dispensing assembly to dispense thespecified amount of the cosmetic material, wherein the electroniccommunication and storage device stores data regarding (i) a productionprocess of the at least one cartridge that is created prior to the atleast one cartridge initially being inserted into the dispensing device,and (ii) a usage of the at least one cartridge after the at least onecartridge is inserted into the dispensing device.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The patent or application file contains at least one drawing executed incolor. A more complete appreciation of the disclosure and many of theattendant advantages thereof will be readily obtained as the samebecomes better understood by reference to the following detaileddescription when considered in connection with the accompanying drawingswherein:

FIG. 1 is an overall perspective view of a cosmetic dispensing device,or a cosmetic dispenser, according to one example;

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a dispenser body, according to oneexample;

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the cosmetic dispenser with thedispenser body removed, according to one example;

FIG. 4A is a perspective view of internal components of the cosmeticdispenser, according to one example;

FIG. 4B is a perspective view of internal components of the cosmeticdispenser, according to one example;

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a cartridge, according to one example;

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a cartridge gear, according to oneexample;

FIG. 7A is a perspective view of a bottom plate, according to oneexample;

FIG. 7B is a perspective view of the bottom plate, viewed from thebottom, according to one example;

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a base, according to one example;

FIG. 9A is an exploded perspective view of a compact, disposed above amanifold, according to one example;

FIG. 9B is a perspective view of the compact in an open position,according to one example;

FIG. 10 is a diagram representing an example sequence of primaryprocesses of a cosmetic formulation method 900, according to oneexample;

FIG. 11 is a process diagram representing an example a process ofdetecting cosmetic material in the cosmetic dispenser, according to oneexample;

FIGS. 12A and 12B are process diagrams representing examples a processof selecting a cosmetic formulation, according to one example;

FIG. 13 is a process diagram representing an example a process ofdispensing cosmetic material in the cosmetic dispenser, according to oneexample

FIG. 14 is a diagram representing an example of a connected cosmeticdispensing system, according to one example; and

FIG. 15 is a diagram representing example circuitry of the controllerand the cosmetic dispenser, according to one example.

FIG. 16 shows components of an eco-system that utilizes the cosmeticdispenser to make personalized doses for a user.

FIG. 17 shows an ecosystem that is built on proposing a trendinglipstick color to a user.

FIG. 18A shows an example flow of operations in the ecosystem fordispensing a personalized lipstick shade from the app perspective.

FIG. 18B shows an additional flowchart on how the algorithms of thesmartphone app in the lipstick ecosystem may allow a user to view ashade of lipstick on the selfie of the user.

FIG. 18C further illustrates how the specific set of cartridges canresult in different shade universes to present to the user.

FIG. 18D shows how a “match my look” mode may operate on the app in thelipstick ecosystem.

FIG. 18E shows details on how the recommendation engine for lipstickworks based on the selfie of the user's outfit.

FIG. 19 shows an ecosystem that is built on proposing a skincareformulation to the user that is the most efficient for the user.

FIG. 20A shows an example flow of operations in the ecosystem fordispensing a personalized skincare formulation from the app perspective.

FIG. 20B shows an example of how a combination of differentenvironmental factors determined to be present for a user can lead todifferent dosage amounts from three different cartridges.

FIG. 21 shows an eco-system that is used to dispense a personalizedfoundation for a user.

FIG. 22A shows an example flow of operations in the \ecosystem fordispensing a personalized foundation from the app perspective.

FIG. 22B provides details on a method of performing a skintonediagnosis.

FIGS. 22C and 22D show details regarding how deep learning is utilizedto estimate a skintone in an image.

FIG. 23 shows a structure of a cartridge that has an NFC tag.

FIG. 24 shows a data format of the data stored on the NFC tag on thecartridge.

FIG. 25 shows a table that includes descriptions of the various fieldscontained in the data format of the NFC tag.

FIG. 26 shows a structure of the dispensing device that is equipped fora smart swappable cartridge system.

FIG. 27 shows a handshake between the dispensing device and a usersmartphone device.

FIG. 28 shows consumer app state machine which shows a process from theapp perspective of priming the cartridges before any use of thedispensing device.

FIG. 29 shows a method of managing a faulty cartridge NFC tag in theafore-mentioned scenario.

FIG. 30 shows a side-view of a dispensing device that includes aretractable plate.

FIGS. 31A and 31B show different states of the retractable plate when itis at different heights.

FIG. 32 shows a cleaning formula reservoir disposed between the body ofthe dispensing device and the retractable plate.

FIG. 33 shows an alternative use of the retractable plate describe aboveto provide a method of flushing the cartridges of any remainingingredients or residues.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS

In the drawings, like reference numerals designate identical orcorresponding parts throughout the several views. Further, as usedherein, the words “a”, “an” and the like generally carry a meaning of“one or more”, unless stated otherwise.

Referring now to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals designateidentical or corresponding parts throughout the several views.

Selecting cosmetic formulations, and component cosmetic materials toformulate cosmetic formulations, is a common activity often relying onsubjective decision making and manual input. There are a wide variety ofavailable cosmetic materials, and countless combinations andpermutations of possible cosmetic formulations.

For each occasion where cosmetic formulations are used, subjectivedecisions are often made by an end user of cosmetics to producesatisfactory cosmetic formulations. Outcomes are generally the result ofexperimentation, perhaps requiring multiple iterations to produce asatisfactory outcome. Partly due to limited awareness of specific traitsof the base cosmetic materials and necessary proportions, resultingcosmetic formulations may lack precision. The repeatability of producinga specific cosmetic formulation is thus difficult to accomplish. Thebelow embodiments address these problems in the conventional art.

Specifically, the below description relates to an eco-system forenabling skincare and make a formula personalization system for use athome which is based on a specialized dispensing device that allowsingredients for a cosmetic product to be instantly blended into a user'spreferred end result and then conveniently transported for portability.

The system shown in the below is a first-of-its-kind, AI-powered 3-in-1device for personalized at-home skincare, foundation, and liquidlipstick. The device and its corresponding app assess users' individualskin and local environmental data to create and deliver personalized,on-the-spot skincare and cosmetic formulas that optimize for increasinglevels of personalization over time.

The overall eco-system features an AI-enabled, motorized cartridgesystem as described above that creates personalized skincare andcosmetics formulas in four steps. The device creates personalized skinserums through the following process:

1. Personal skin analysis: The user takes a photo with a smartphonecamera and opens an app on the smartphone. The app uses AI to analyzethe user's overall skin condition, assessing deep wrinkles, fine lines,dark spots, lack of firmness, pore visibility, and lack of radiance.

2. Environmental assessment: The app (and/or a separate cloud computingplatform) assesses local environmental conditions that can influence thestate of the user's skin, including weather, temperature, humidity, UVindex, air quality, and pollen.

3. Product preference: The user then enters specific skincare concerns,like fine lines, wrinkles, dark spots, rough skin texture and dullnessinto the app.

4. Custom formulation and dispensing: A personalized blend ofhigh-performance skincare is then dispensed in a portioned, single doseat the top of the device.

The motor system, located at the top of the device, moves and compressesthe formula from the cartridges at the base of the machine in an upwardmotion to the dispensing tray above for a clean application.

With regular use, the AI platform can assess the appearance of a user'sskin over time, helping users identify what is working, and calibratingfuture formulas. The AI-powered system can optimize the efficacy ofpersonalized formulas. By taking photos regularly, users enable thesmart system to recognize the formulas' effects, and adjust the dosageof active ingredients accordingly. That said, the user can override thesystem recommendations if they are seeking, for example, additionalmoisturizer.

The skincare system contains active ingredients including AHAs, VitaminsC and E, hyaluronic acid, ferulic acid, retinol, cucumber, thyme, andmulberry.

The cosmetics offerings—for foundation and liquid lipstick—will have thecapability to incorporate real-time trend information as well ascolor-matching technology into its personalized product offerings asdescribed below.

-   -   Using the lipstick system, consumers will be able to create        liquid lipstick based on their personal skintone and        preferences. The system can shade-match a user's clothing or        accessories, or they can even opt to create a particular color        that is trending on social media. The device will have three        cartridges; collectively, these cartridges will have the        capability to create hundreds of shades.    -   The foundation system described below will contain three        cartridges, ranging from light to deep tones. Knowing that        foundation is never one-size-fits-all, a selection of these        color trios may be offered in order to match the widest variety        of shades. Using a shade-matching tool, the three cartridges        will dispense varying levels of color to create personalized        shades. The device has the capability to create hundreds of        custom shades. The device will create a single dose of color,        but users can easily double or triple the amount with an        additional touch.

There are three dosing settings for the system described herein. Therewill be a standard-sized dose (0.7 grams; roughly the size of apistachio) that users can double or triple with an additional touch.

The device features a detachable mirrored compact so you can take aportioned dose of product with you.

From opening the app and taking a photo of one's face to dispensingproduct, the user experience with the present system takes about threeminutes.

[Dispensing Device]

FIG. 1 is an overall perspective view of a cosmetic dispensing device100, or a cosmetic dispenser, according to one example. The visibleportion of the cosmetic dispenser 100 includes a base 102 connected to apower cord 104. The base 102 provides a support for the dispenser body106. A compact 108 is disposed above the dispenser body 106, a powerbutton 110 may be disposed partly within the dispenser body 106 suchthat the dispenser body 106 secures placement of the power button 110,and an indicator light and button 122 may be disposed partly within thedispenser body 106 such that the dispenser body 106 secures placement ofthe indicator light and button 122. The indicator light and button 122may be a mechanical or capacitive touch-type button.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the dispenser body 106, according to oneexample. The dispenser body 106 is a hollow, thin-walled container thatserves as a cover for much of the components of the cosmetic dispenser100. In this example the dispenser body 106 has a first end at the topwith an approximately square cross section with rounded corners, while asecond end at the bottom has a circular cross section. The dispenserbody 106 may provide a base for the compact 108, or other componentsthat serve as a base for the compact 108. The dispenser body 106 mayalso include a mounting point for the power button 110 and a mountingpoint for the indicator light and button 122.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the cosmetic dispenser 100 with thedispenser body 106 removed, according to one example. The power button110, the indicator light and button 122, a controller 150, a bottomplate 166, an inductive plate 176, and a gearhousing 170 are visible inthis view, as are a lower body section 154, a middle body section 155,and an upper body section 156. The power button 110 is electricallyconnected to the controller 150.

The controller 150 includes circuitry for distributing power receivedthrough the power cord 104, controlling one or more motors 112 todispense cosmetic material, detecting readings of an optical encoder192, charging one or more batteries 126, operating any indicators suchas the indicator light and button 122, chimes, or other audiovisualsignals, sensors such as for detecting availability status, type, andquantity of cosmetic material, and communicating wirelessly withexternal devices, including circuitry to send and receive signals anddata, for example through smart phones and other wireless devices, usinga variety of communication protocols, such as Radio Frequency (RF),Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or cellular.

The inductive plate 176 supports the bottom plate 166, aside from thebase 102 and the power cord 104, the remainder of the cosmetic dispenser100 is disposed atop the bottom plate 166. The gearhousing 170 isdisposed above, is connected to, and provides support to internalcomponents of the cosmetic dispenser 100 that are further described byFIG. 4 through FIG. 9B. Further, the gearhousing 170 includes aplurality of gearhousing cartridge holes 178, one for each cartridge 114in the cosmetic dispenser 100. A nozzle 160 of each cartridge 114 isdisposed inside one of the gearhousing cartridge holes 178. Variousadditional substructures and covers may be disposed between the internalcomponents of the cosmetic dispenser 100 and the dispenser body 106.

For example, the upper body section 156 is disposed above the middlebody section 155, and the lower body section 154 disposed below themiddle body section 155. When connected, the dispenser body 106 attachesto outside of at least one of the lower body section 154, the middlebody section 155, and the upper body section 156. The bottom plate 166is disposed below and connected to the lower body section 154.

FIG. 4A and FIG. 4B are perspective views of internal components of thecosmetic dispenser 100, according to one example. The internal assemblyincludes a plurality of dispensing assemblies 120, disposed above thebottom plate 166 and the inductive plate 176. Each dispensing assembly120 comprises a cartridge 114, a cartridge gear 116, a motor 112, amotor gear 124, an ejector 140, an ejector index ring 190, an ejectorspring 142, an ejector spring pin 144, a detent plunger 146, and adetent spring 152. The controller 150 controls the operation of each ofthe dispensing assemblies 120. The cosmetic dispenser 100 includes atleast one dispensing assembly 120. The examples described herein containthree dispensing assemblies 120, though a person having ordinary skillin the art will recognize that a cosmetic dispenser 100 may have anynumber of dispensing assemblies 120.

Further, a plurality of batteries 126 inside the cosmetic dispenser 100are electrically connected to the plurality of dispensing assemblies 120to provide electrical power for the operation of the controller 150, thedispensing assembly 120, the motor 112, and various indicators, such asthe indicator light and button 122 (further described in FIG. 3),chimes, and other audiovisual signals.

The controller 150 and a connected device 300 (shown in FIG. 14) allow auser to operate the cosmetic dispenser 100 wirelessly. Cosmetic materialformulation and recipe commands to the controller 150 may be receivedfrom the connected device 300, such as a smart phone, tablet, orpersonal computer, configured to communicate with the cosmetic dispenser100. Further, dispensing of cosmetic material may also be triggered bythe user by touching the indicator light and button 122 on the cosmeticdispenser 100.

The cartridge 114 also has a cartridge key 162 disposed on or near thenozzle 160, is connected near a first end to the cartridge gear 116, isconnected near a second end to the bottom plate 166, with a motor gear124 connected to the motor 112, and the motor gear 124 drivinglyconnected to the cartridge gear 116. The cartridge 114 and the cartridgegear 116 are held in position by the gearhousing 170 (shown in FIG. 3).The cartridge 114 may be disposed inside the cosmetic dispenser 100, andsecured in place by the ejector 140 connected to an ejector spring 142,the ejector spring pin 144 connected at a first end to the ejectorspring 142 and rigidly connected at a second end to an inside surface ofat least one of the dispenser body 106, the lower body section 154, themiddle body section 155, the upper body section 156, and other internalstructure. The dispensing assembly 120 further includes an ejector indexring 190 (shown in FIG. 4A) to guide the movement of the ejector 140within the cosmetic dispenser 100 during insertion and removal of thecartridge 114, with the ejector index ring 190 disposed against theinside surface of at least one of the dispenser body 106, the lower bodysection 154, the middle body section 155, and the upper body section 156to provide a guide for the movement the ejector 140.

Additionally, a detent plunger 146 may be disposed substantiallyperpendicularly to a longitudinal axis of the cartridge 114 andconnected near the second end of the cartridge 114, providing a lateralpressure to a circumferential groove circumferential groove 134 of thecartridge 114, keeping the cartridge 114 in place along the verticalY-axis, counteracting an opposite force applied by tension to thecartridge 114 by the ejector 140, the ejector spring 142, and an ejectorspring pin 144. The ejector 140 is disposed within the cosmeticdispenser 100 and may move substantially parallel to the cartridge 114,and is connected to the ejector spring 142 that is further connected tothe ejector spring pin 144. As the cartridge 114 is inserted into thecosmetic dispenser 100, an edge of the ejector 140 contacts an edge nearthe first end of the cartridge 114. The ejector 140 applies a pressureto the cartridge 114 as the ejector spring 142 stretches with theincreasing distance between the stationary ejector spring pin 144 andthe ejector 140, as the ejector 140 moves with the cartridge 114 furtherinto the cosmetic dispenser 100. Once the cartridge 114 is inserted tothe point that a first end of the detent plunger 146 makes contact withthe circumferential groove 134 of the cartridge 114, the motion of thecartridge 114 along the Y-axis is restricted, holding the cartridge 114in place.

The detent plunger 146 is a mechanism for holding the cartridge 114 inplace. The detent plunger 146 moves along an axis substantiallyperpendicular to that of the major axis of the cartridge 114. A firstend of the detent plunger 146 is disposed to make contact with thecartridge 114. A second end is connected to a first end of a detentspring 152, the second end of the detent spring 152 in contact with aninside surface of at least one of the dispenser body 106, the lower bodysection 154, the middle body section 155, the upper body section 156, orother internal structure. Insertion of the cartridge 114 into thecosmetic dispenser 100 displaces the detent plunger 146 against thedetent spring 152, compressing the detent spring 152. Because thecontour of the cartridge 114 varies over the length of the cartridge114, the detent plunger 146, and the detent spring 152 are displaced byvarying amounts depending on the position of the cartridge 114 relativeto the cosmetic dispenser 100. At a point where the detent plunger 146contacts the circumferential groove 134 of the cartridge 114, the firstend of the detent plunger 146 is able to lock the cartridge 114 in placedue to pressure of the detent spring 152 and the geometric relationshipbetween the detent plunger 146 and the circumferential groove 134.

Further, the cartridge 114 is inserted into the cosmetic dispenser 100through a cartridge through hole 172 of the bottom plate 166. Thecartridge through hole 172 has a base key cutout 165 (FIG. 7A) shaped tocorrespond to the base key 164 such that as the base key 164 and thebase key cutout 165 make contact, the cartridge 114 cannot rotaterelative to the bottom plate 166. The cartridge 114 is also shaped tofit into the bottom plate 166 and the cartridge gear 116 in a specificorientation. In the position where the cartridge 114 is fully insertedinto the cosmetic dispenser 100 and locked in place by the detentplunger 146, the cartridge 114 is seated against the cartridge gear 116.Additionally, the cartridge gear 116 has a collar 168 portion that isrotatably connected to the gearhousing 170, restricting movement of thecartridge gear 116 such that the cartridge gear 116 can rotate about alongitudinal axis but may not move axially or otherwise, and supportingthe position of each of the cartridge gears 116 and motor gears 124.Similarly, the motor gear 124 has a motor gear collar 169 portion thatis rotatably connected to the gearhousing 170, restricting movement ofthe motor gear 124 such that the motor gear 124 can rotate about alongitudinal axis but may not move axially or otherwise, preserving therelationship between the cartridge gear 116 and the motor gear 124 suchthat rotary motion of the motor gear 124 results in rotary motion of thecartridge gear 116 at a fixed ratio.

The motor gear 124 may be a spur gear that includes a key cutout 163(FIG. 6) that fits the cartridge key 162 of the cartridge 114, asdescribed by FIG. 4B.

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the cartridge 114, according to oneexample. The cartridge 114 has a round, cylindrical body and a nozzle160 at a first end. The nozzle 160 is further disposed near a cartridgekey 162. The cartridge key 162 fits inside the opening of the cartridgegear 116, corresponds to the shape of the key cutout 163 of thecartridge gear 116, and locks the rotational motion of the portion neara first end of the cartridge 114 with that of the cartridge gear 116. Asthe cartridge gear 116 is driven by the motor gear 124 and the motor112. A second end of the cartridge 114 includes a base key 164. The basekey 164 fits inside the base key cutout 165 of the bottom plate 166,secures the second end of the cartridge 114 to the bottom plate 166, andprevents rotational motion of the second end of the cartridge 114relative to the bottom plate 166. Since the first end of the cartridge114 is secured to the motion of the cartridge gear 116, actuation of themotor 112 rotates the motor gear 124 and drives the cartridge gear 116,thereby opening and closing the nozzle 160 of the cartridge 114. Thefirst and second ends of the cartridge 114 may rotate relative to oneanother.

The cartridge 114 contains and dispenses an amount of cosmetic materialinto the compact 108 as needed (further described by FIG. 9). Thecartridge 114 dispenses cosmetic material by rotation of the cartridgegear 116 while the cartridge 114 remains in place substantiallyvertically along the Y-axis. The cartridge gear 116 is driven by themotor gear 124 that is turned by the rotation of the motor 112. Themagnitude of rotation of the motor 112 is controlled by the controller150.

An amount of cosmetic material is released from the cartridge 114through the nozzle 160 by a first rotational motion of the first endwith respect to the second end of the cartridge 114. Rotational motionof the first end of the cartridge 114 in a second direction, opposite ofthe first rotational motion, may close the nozzle 160 of the cartridge114.

The cartridge gear 116 actuates the nozzle 160 of the cartridge 114 thatis attached to a hollow cartridge lead screw 202 within the cartridge114. Rotation of the cartridge lead screw 202 proportionately displacesa cartridge piston 200 that forces an amount of cosmetic materialthrough the cartridge lead screw 202 and out the nozzle 160 of thecartridge 114. The amount of cosmetic material released during anopening and closing operation of the nozzle 160 is a function of thedisplacement of the cartridge lead screw 202, which is dependent uponthe rotational displacement of the cartridge gear 116. Rotation of themotor 112 rotates the respective motor gear 124 and the cartridge gear116. The controller 150 detects the relative motion of the cartridgegear 116 using the optical encoder 192 to count a number of cartridgegear slots 148 that pass the optical encoder 192 as the cartridge gear116 rotates, and the direction of rotation of the cartridge gear 116. Aspecific unit of measure of cosmetic material is a dose unit dose unit118.

In one example, the pitch of the cartridge lead screw 202 is about 1 mm,with one full rotation of the cartridge lead screw 202 dispensing about1 mL of cosmetic material from the cartridge 114.

In another example, due to the shape of the cartridge key 162 of thecartridge 114 the circumferential groove 134 may be a notch or a grooveabout a portion of the circumference of the cartridge 114, rather thanextend fully around the perimeter of the cartridge 114 to secure thecartridge 114 to the detent plunger 146 in substantially the samemanner.

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of the cartridge gear 116, according to oneexample. The cartridge gear 116 may be a spur gear that includes a keycutout 163 that corresponds to the shape of the cartridge key 162 of thecartridge 114. The cartridge gear 116 may further have a collar 168 thatrotatably connects to an inside surface of the gearhousing 170 to alignand support the position of the cartridge gear 116 and the correspondingmotor gear 124. The cartridge gear 116 may have a plurality of cartridgegear slots 148 for use with the optical encoder 192 to detect angularposition of the cartridge gear 116 and the cartridge lead screw 202.

FIG. 7A is a perspective view of the bottom plate 166, according to oneexample. The bottom plate 166 is connected to the dispenser body 106and/or the lower body section 154, restrains the plurality of cartridges114 disposed inside the cosmetic dispenser 100, and connects thecosmetic dispenser 100 to the inductive plate 176 disposed below thebottom plate 166.

The bottom plate 166 has a plurality of cartridge through holes 172 toallow for the insertion, removal, and securement of the plurality ofcartridges 114. Each cartridge through hole 172 includes a base keycutout 165, and the shape of the base key cutout 165 corresponds to theshape of the base key 164 of each cartridge 114 to prevent rotationalmotion of the second end of the cartridge 114, the portion in contactwith the bottom plate 166, when the cartridge 114 is installed in thecosmetic dispenser 100.

Further, the bottom plate 166 has contact pins 174 (shown in FIG. 7B)that contact the inductive plate, providing electricity to the bottomplate 166, allowing the cosmetic dispenser 100 to charge the pluralityof batteries 126 through contact or induction.

FIG. 7B is a perspective view of the bottom plate 166, viewed from thebottom, according to one example. The bottom plate 166 includes threecartridge through holes 172 disposed within the plate, and contact pins174. When the bottom plate 166 is disposed within the cosmetic dispenserand upon the base 102, the contact pins 174 can conduct electricity fromthe base 102 to the bottom plate 166. The bottom plate 166 can theninductively charge the plurality of batteries 126 disposed above thebottom plate 166.

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the base 102, according to one example.A power cord 104 is connected at a first end to the base 102. The powercord 104 is connected at a second end to a power source (not shown),providing power for the operation of the cosmetic dispenser 100 and forcharging the plurality of batteries 126. The base 102 includes a baseindentation 128 for placement of the inductive plate 176 and otherportions of the cosmetic dispenser 100. The base indentation 128 mayhave the ability to inductively charge the plurality of batteries 126using power supplied by the power cord 104. Further, it may also chargethe cosmetic dispenser 100 through contact pins 174 disposed inside thebottom plate 166 when the bottom plate 166 is disposed within the baseindentation 128.

FIG. 9A is an exploded perspective view of the compact 108, disposedabove a manifold 130, according to one example. The compact 108 includesa top lid 180, a compact base 182, and a bottom lid 184. The top lid 180is disposed above the compact base 182, which is disposed above orwithin the bottom lid 184. The top lid 180 is secured to the compactbase 182 by magnets, as described further by FIG. 9B. The compact base182 includes a plurality of compact base through holes 138. In thisexample, there is one compact base through hole 138 for each cartridge114 in the cosmetic dispenser 100. The bottom lid 184, having aplurality of bottom lid through holes 136, is disposed underneath thecompact base 182. In this example there is one bottom lid through hole136 for each cartridge 114 in the cosmetic dispenser 100, and the bottomlid 184 is disposed such that each bottom lid through hole 136corresponds to and is connected to a compact base through hole 138 ofthe compact base 182.

The compact 108 is connected to the manifold 130, the manifold 130connected to and disposed above the gearhousing 170, further disposedwithin the dispenser body 106 of the cosmetic dispenser 100, and thecompact 108 is disposed above both the manifold 130 and the dispenserbody 106. The manifold 130 includes one manifold through hole 132 foreach cartridge 114 in the cosmetic dispenser 100, and the manifold 130is disposed such that each manifold through hole 132 corresponds to andis connected to a compact base through hole 136 of the bottom lid 184.Further, each manifold through hole 132 of the manifold 130 correspondsto and is disposed above a gearhousing cartridge hole 178 of thegearhousing 170, providing a passage by which cosmetic material can bedispensed from the nozzle 160 of each cartridge 114 through the manifold130, the bottom lid 184, and into the compact base 182.

The compact 108 may have a form such that there is only one orientationby which the compact 108 can connect to the cosmetic dispenser 100. Inanother example, it may be that the form of the compact 108 can connectto the compact 108 in more than one orientation.

Further, cosmetic material dispensed into the compact 108 may beprevented from flowing back out by use of a one way duckbill valve 194(not shown) disposed within each of the compact base through holes 136in the bottom lid 184 of the compact 108.

FIG. 9B is a perspective view of the compact 108 in an open position,according to one example. The compact 108 includes a top lid 180, acompact base 182, a bottom lid 184, a plurality of hinge magnets 186 a,186 b, 186 c, and 186 d, a plurality of lid magnets 188 a, 188 b, 188 c,and 188 d, and a plurality of mounting magnets 196 a, 196 b, and 196 c.

In one example, the compact base 182, the plurality of mounting magnets196 a-196 c, a first half of the plurality of lid magnets 188 b and 188d, and a first half the plurality of hinge magnets 186 b and 186 d, aredisposed within the bottom lid 184, with the compact base 182 disposedabove. The plurality of mounting magnets 196 a-196 c are disposed tomagnetically connect the compact 108 to the cosmetic dispensing device100, for example by connecting to the manifold 130 (FIG. 9A). Themanifold 130, or portions of the surface of the manifold 130, may beformed of a ferrous material or contain corresponding magnets tomagnetically attach to the plurality of mounting magnets 196 a-196 c.

A second half of the plurality of lid magnets 188 a and 188 c aredisposed within a side of the top lid 180, and a second half of theplurality of hinge magnets 186 a and 186 c are disposed within a side ofthe top lid 180. The hinge magnets 186 b and 186 d are disposed within aside of the bottom lid 184 such that they may be in contact withcorresponding hinge magnets 186 a and 186 c in at least two planes,depending on a relative position between the top lid 180 and the bottomlid 184. The hinge magnets 186 a and 186 b have opposite magneticpolarity, as do the respective pairs of hinge magnets 186 c and 186 d,the lid magnets 188 a and 188 b, and the lid magnets 188 c and 188 d.

The plurality of 196 and the plurality of lid magnets 188 a-188 d may bedisposed such that the plurality of bottom lid through holes 138disposed in the compact base 182 are unobstructed to allow cosmeticmaterial to flow from each of the cartridges 114 into the compact 108 ascosmetic material is dispensed.

In a case where the compact 108 is in an open position, the top lid 180and the bottom lid 184 are positioned approximately in perpendicularplanes, the hinge magnets 186 a and 186 c magnetically connected to thehinge magnets 186 b and 186 d, respectively. The magnetic force betweeneach pair of the hinge magnets 186 a and 186 b and the hinge magnets 186c and 186 d is sufficient to hold the top lid 180 in position relativeto the bottom lid 184.

In a case where the compact 108 is in a closed position, the top lid 180and the bottom lid 184 are positioned approximately in parallel planes,the hinge magnets 186 a and 186 c magnetically connected to the hingemagnets 186 b and 186 d, respectively, and the lid magnets 188 a and 188c are disposed in corresponding positions, and magnetically connectedwith the lid magnets 188 b and 188 d, respectively, the magneticconnection between the pairs of hinge magnets 186 a and 186 b and thehinge magnets 186 c and 186 d, and between the pair of lid magnets 188 aand 188 b, and the pair of lid magnets 188 c and 188 d, sufficient tokeep the top lid 180 connected to the bottom lid 184 in a closedposition.

Since the top lid 180 is connected to the bottom lid 184 magnetically,the top lid 180 may be entirely removable from the bottom lid 184.Further, it may also be able to connect with the bottom lid 184 in aclosed position in more than one orientation about the x-z plane,depending on the disposition of the plurality of the hinge magnets 186a-186 d and the lid magnets 188 a-188 d within the top lid 180 and thebottom lid 184. Further, the top lid 180 may be able to pivot about thebottom lid 184, or vice versa, opening or closing about more than oneaxis, such as about the x-axis or the z-axis.

Alternatively, the plurality of mounting magnets 196 a-196 c may besubstituted by one mounting magnet 196 of sufficient strength to securethe compact 108 to the cosmetic dispensing device 100.

Alternatively, the plurality of hinge magnets 186 a-186 d may besubstituted by one hinge magnet 186 a of sufficient strength in the toplid 180 and by one hinge magnet 186 b of sufficient strength in thebottom lid 184 to secure one side of the top lid 180 to the bottom lid184 with the compact 108 in an open or a closed position.

Alternatively, the plurality of lid magnets 188 a-188 d may besubstituted by one lid magnet 188 a of sufficient strength in the toplid 180 and by one lid magnet 188 b of sufficient strength in the bottomlid 184 to secure one side of the top lid 180 to the bottom lid 184 withthe compact 108 in a closed position.

FIG. 10 is a diagram representing an example sequence of primaryprocesses of a cosmetic formulation method 900, according to oneexample. The examples provided herein each have three cartridges, thoughthe same process may be used by cosmetic dispenser 100 equipped with anynumber of cartridges 114. The cosmetic formulation method 900 includes adetecting process S920, a selecting process S940, and a dispensingprocess S960. An additional mixing process S980 may be performed by auser. The detecting processes S920, the selecting process S940, and thedispensing process S960 are performed by the cosmetic device 100 basedon commands received from the controller 150, the controller 150 sendingdata to and receiving input from the user through the smart device 300or by indicators on the cosmetic device 100 itself, as described in FIG.3 and FIG. 4.

FIG. 11 is a process diagram representing an example a process ofdetecting cosmetic material in the cosmetic dispenser 100, according toone example. S920 represents a process for detecting cosmetic material.The process S920 may include at least one of the steps of step 921detecting removal and installation of a cartridge 114, step 922detecting at least one material characteristic of the cartridge 114, anoptional step 923 of detecting a quantity of cosmetic material in thecartridge 114, and an optional step 924 to calculate an estimateddepletion of the cartridge(s) after a future dispensing operation isperformed.

The optional step 923 of detecting a quantity of material in each of aplurality of cartridges 114 may include, for example, step 923 adetecting a quantity of material of a cartridge A, step 923 b detectinga quantity of material of a cartridge B, and step 923 c detecting aquantity of material of a cartridge C, for example based on total netdisplacement (rotation) of the cartridge gear 116 detected by theoptical encoder 192 since installation of each cartridge 114.

The optional step 924 of detecting at least one material characteristicin each of a plurality of cartridges 114 may include, for example, step924 a detecting at least one material characteristic of a cartridge A,step 924 b detecting at least one material characteristic of a cartridgeB, and step 924 c detecting at least one material characteristic of acartridge C. Material characteristics may include at least one from theset of consisting of color, texture, sheen, moisture, nutrient content,and chemical formulation. This detection may be performed based on anear field sensor disposed in the dispenser 100 which detects an RFIDtag on the cartridge that stores information of the contents of thecartridge according to methods well understood in the art. Alternativemethods of detection may be used such as bar code detection of a barcode printed on the cartridge, or detection using methods wellunderstood in the art. The step of detecting the at least one materialcharacteristic in each of the cartridges may be performed before theoptional step of detecting the quantity of cosmetic material in eachcartridge.

Further, process S920 may include optional step 926 for reportinginformation that may be derived from historical usage data, of the useror aggregated across groups of users, such as which cartridge 114 withinthe cosmetic dispenser 100 is anticipated to be depleted of cosmeticmaterial first and by when.

FIG. 12A is a process diagram representing an example a process S940 ofselecting a cosmetic formulation, according to one example. S940includes a process for selecting a cosmetic formulation. The processS940 includes steps of identifying combinations of cosmetic formulationspossible based on the type and quantities of cosmetic materials presentwithin the cosmetic dispenser 100, as established by the detectingprocess S920.

A step 942 d may be based on a user selecting from a set of cosmeticformulations that are possible for the types and quantities of cosmeticmaterial present within the cosmetic dispenser 100, or a step 942 callows the user to choose from a larger set of cosmetic materialinventory 204 that is possible for types and quantities of cosmeticmaterials the cosmetic dispenser 100 is capable of using.

In another example, a step 943 of process S940 includes allowing a userto choose a desired dose unit 118. Varying the dose unit 118 can changethe set of available cosmetic formulations from within the cosmeticdispenser 100 if a greater amount of one or more cosmetic materials isneeded than is available to dispense a specific quantity of dose unit118 for a specific cosmetic formulation.

For example, if cartridge A contains yellow cosmetic material, cartridgeB contains red cosmetic material, and cartridge C contains greencosmetic material, and there is only one dose unit 118 of cartridge Aremaining, the user would not be able to choose to dispense anycombination of dose units 118 and cosmetic formulation that requiresmore than one dose unit 118 of yellow cosmetic material.

Further, the process S940 may include a step 942 a for the user toselect a cosmetic formulation based on matching of a photo, a step 942 bfor the user to select a cosmetic formulation based on recommendations,or selecting a cosmetic formulation based on another process. U.S. Pat.No. 8,634,640, describes a method for selecting a color from an image orpicture in a camera or electronic device, and using color reference datato substantially match the color, and is hereby incorporated asreference in its entirety.

In another embodiment, a skin diagnosis (sometimes referred herein as askin profile) may be performed for providing a recommended plurality ofpredetermined colors for the user to select based on an analysis of theuser's skin features. The skin diagnosis determines an appropriate colorfor the user based on an imaging operation performed on the user's face.Examples of known skin diagnosis tools in the art are: Lancome DiagnosABS, HR Skinscope, Biotherm Bluesmart, Kiehl's Skinprofiler V.0, CADermanalyzer, and the Vichy Vichyconsult.

For cosmetic formulations that are possible but not available based onthe results of the detecting process S920, the cosmetic dispenser 100may communicate to the user what cosmetic materials are necessary todispense such cosmetic formulations.

In one example, in step 944 the user selects a dose unit 118 of acosmetic formulation presently unavailable. Step 944 may determine whatcosmetic materials, such as what type of cartridges 114 are needed tomix and dispense the selected cosmetic formulation.

In another example, step 944 may determine what additional cosmeticformulations may become available if a specific cartridge 114 isreplaced with a full but otherwise identical cartridge 114.

In another example, step 944 may determine what additional cosmeticformulations may become available if a cartridge 114 is replaced withanother cartridge 114 containing different cosmetic material.

Step 945 determines whether to proceed to step 947 to prompt the user toconfirm and proceed with dispensing a cosmetic formulation or to proceedto step 946 to report what cartridge or cartridges 114 are needed todispense the desired cosmetic formulation, based on the outcome of step944.

FIG. 12B shows an optional process S940 b that is performed by thedispenser apparatus 100 alone after a cosmetic formulation has beenpreviously received and is currently stored on the dispenser apparatus100 in a step 948. The remaining steps 943 through 947 of S940 b areidentical to those of S940 described by FIG. 12A. The process of FIG.12B may be performed without an existing connection being establishedbetween the dispenser apparatus 100 and device 300.

FIG. 13 is a process diagram representing an example of a process S960of dispensing cosmetic material in a cosmetic dispenser 100, accordingto one example. Step 961 represents a step for dispensing at least onedose unit of a cosmetic formulation. The process S960 includes steps 962a through 962 c of ejecting a requested quantity of cosmetic materialfrom at least one cartridge 114 to produce a cosmetic formulationselected by the user in process S940, such that the cosmetic formulationmay be applied, transported in a container, or is otherwise available tothe user. The process S960 includes optional steps 963 a through 963 cof detecting the remaining quantity of cosmetic material in each of thecartridges and optional step 964 of recording the results in a memory ofthe dispensing apparatus.

After the dispensing process S960 is completed, the user may perform theprocess S980 of mixing the released cosmetic material manually,producing the requested cosmetic formulation.

FIG. 14 is a diagram representing an example of a connected cosmeticdispensing system, according to one example. A system 400, whichimplements the cosmetic dispenser 100 described above, includes at leastthe cosmetic dispenser 100 and a connected device 300. Optionally, thesystem may further include one or more external servers 410 which areimplemented as part of a cloud-computing environment. Furthermore, thesystem may optionally include a cosmetic material inventory 204 which isan inventory of possible cosmetic material that may be inserted into thecosmetic device 100.

The connected device 300 may be a personal computer (PC), a laptopcomputer, a PDA (Personal Digital Assistants), a smart phone, a tabletdevice, a UMPC (Ultra Mobile Personal Computer), a net-book, or anotebook type personal computer. In the below examples, the connecteddevice 300 is assumed to be a tablet device, such as an Apple iPad.

The connected device 300 is capable of performing wireless communicationwith the cosmetic dispenser 100 by way of a wireless communicationinterface circuitry 774 on the cosmetic dispenser 100. However,connected device 300 is also capable of having a wired connection to thecosmetic dispenser 100 by way of a USB interface 776 on the apparatus100. Additionally, each device, including the cosmetic dispenser 100,may communicate with each other and the external one or more devicesthrough an internet connection via an 802.11 wireless connection to awireless internet access point, or a physical connection to the internetaccess point, such as through an Ethernet interface. Each connecteddevice 300 is capable of performing wireless communication with otherdevices, such as through a Bluetooth connection or other wireless meansas well.

The connected device 300 is configured to receive information from auser for use in generating a cosmetic formulation that will be used bythe cosmetic dispenser 100 to dispense cosmetic material into thecompact 108.

FIG. 15 is a block diagram representing circuitry of the controller 150and the cosmetic dispenser 100, according to one example. A centralprocessing unit (CPU) 710 provides primary control over the separatecircuitry components included in the apparatus, such as a dispensercontrol circuitry 740 (which may include control circuitry for themotors 112, circuitry for the optical encoder 192, and inductive sensorcircuitry). The CPU 710 may also control an optional input/output device772 (such as a keyboard or mouse), a memory 780, the wirelesscommunication interface circuitry 774, the universal serial bus (USB)controller 776, an LED driver 778, and a display module 780. The LEDdriver 778 controls the pulsing of one or more indicator lights 122.

In an embodiment, circuitry includes, among other things, one or morecomputing devices such as a processor (e.g., a microprocessor, a quantumprocessor, qubit processor, etc.), a central processing unit (CPU), adigital signal processor (DSP), an application specific integratedcircuit (ASIC), a field programmable gate array (FPGA), or the like, orany combinations thereof, and can include discrete digital or analogcircuit elements or electronics, or combinations thereof.

In an embodiment, a module includes one or more ASICs having a pluralityof predefined logic components.

In an embodiment, a module includes one or more FPGAs, each having aplurality of programmable logic components.

In an embodiment, circuitry includes one or more components operablycoupled (e.g., communicatively, electromagnetically, magnetically,ultrasonically, optically, inductively, electrically, capacitivelycoupled, wirelessly coupled, or the like) to each other.

In an embodiment, circuitry includes one or more remotely locatedcomponents.

In an embodiment, remotely located components are operably coupled, forexample, via wireless communication, such as with a connected device300.

In an embodiment, remotely located components are operably coupled, forexample, via one or more communication modules, receivers, transmitters,transceivers, or the like.

In an embodiment, any of the CPU 710 or other components shown in FIG.15 may be substituted with alternative circuitry elements. Examples ofcircuitry include memory that, for example, stores instructions orinformation. Non-limiting examples of memory include volatile memory(e.g., Random Access Memory (RAM), Dynamic Random Access Memory (DRAM),or the like), non-volatile memory (e.g., Read-Only Memory (ROM),Electrically Erasable Programmable Read-Only Memory (EEPROM), CompactDisc Read-Only Memory (CD-ROM), or the like), persistent memory, or thelike. Further non-limiting examples of memory include ErasableProgrammable Read-Only Memory (EPROM), flash memory, or the like.

In an embodiment, memory is coupled to, for example, one or morecomputing devices by one or more instructions, information, or powerbuses.

In an embodiment, circuitry includes one or more computer-readable mediadrives, interface sockets, Universal Serial Bus (USB) ports, memory cardslots, or the like, and one or more input/output components such as, forexample, a graphical user interface, a display, a keyboard, a keypad, atrackball, a joystick, a touch-screen, a mouse, a switch, a dial, or thelike, and any other peripheral device.

In an embodiment, a module includes one or more user input/outputcomponents that are operably coupled to at least one computing deviceconfigured to control (electrical, electromechanical,software-implemented, firmware implemented, or other control, orcombinations thereof) at least one parameter associated with, forexample, determining one or more tissue thermal properties responsive todetected shifts in turn-ON voltage.

In an embodiment, circuitry includes a computer-readable media drive ormemory slot that is configured to accept signal-bearing medium (e.g.,computer-readable memory media, computer-readable recording media, orthe like).

In an embodiment, a program for causing a system to execute any of thedisclosed methods can be stored on, for example, a computer-readablerecording medium, a signal-bearing medium, or the like. Non-limitingexamples of signal-bearing media include a recordable type medium suchas a magnetic tape, floppy disk, a hard disk drive, a Compact Disc (CD),a Digital Video Disk (DVD), Blu-Ray Disc, a digital tape, a computermemory, or the like, as well as transmission type medium such as adigital or an analog communication medium (e.g., a fiber optic cable, awaveguide, a wired communications link, a wireless communication link(e.g., receiver, transmitter, transceiver, transmission logic, receptionlogic, etc.). Further non-limiting examples of signal-bearing mediainclude, but are not limited to, DVD-ROM, DVD-RAM, DVD+RW, DVD-RW,DVD-R, DVD+R, CD-ROM, Super Audio CD, CD-R, CD+R, CD+RW, CD-RW, VideoCompact Discs, Super Video Discs, flash memory, magnetic tape,magneto-optic disk, MINIDISC, non-volatile memory card, EEPROM, opticaldisk, optical storage, RAM, ROM, system memory, web server, or the like.

In an embodiment, circuitry includes acoustic transducers,electroacoustic transducers, electrochemical transducers,electromagnetic transducers, electromechanical transducers,electrostatic transducers, photoelectric transducers, radio-acoustictransducers, thermoelectric transducers, or ultrasonic transducers.

In an embodiment, circuitry includes electrical circuitry operablycoupled with a transducer (e.g., an actuator, a motor, a piezoelectriccrystal, a Micro Electro Mechanical System (MEMS), etc.).

In an embodiment, circuitry includes electrical circuitry having atleast one discrete electrical circuit, electrical circuitry having atleast one integrated circuit, or electrical circuitry having at leastone application specific integrated circuit.

In an embodiment, circuitry includes electrical circuitry forming ageneral purpose computing device configured by a computer program (e.g.,a general purpose computer configured by a computer program which atleast partially carries out processes and/or devices described herein,or a microprocessor configured by a computer program which at leastpartially carries out processes and/or devices described herein),electrical circuitry forming a memory device (e.g., forms of memory(e.g., random access, flash, read only, etc.)), electrical circuitryforming a communications device (e.g., a modem, communications switch,optical-electrical equipment, etc.), and/or any non-electrical analogthereto, such as optical or other analogs.

[Personalized Cosmetic Ecosystem]

FIG. 16 shows components of the ecosystem 1600 which are common to eachtype of product. The ecosystem includes the dispenser 1610, a usersmartphone device 1620, and a cloud platform 1630. The smartphone isshown to include two functional blocks of the smartphone application(“app”) setup 1621 and the smartphone application usage 1622. Thesmartphone application setup 1621 will be described in detail below withregard to the different personalization examples and it involvesestablishing the initial setup information for configuring a userprofile of the user. The setup information can then be utilized when thesmartphone application is being used and it can also be sent to thecloud platform 1630 for use in sending a selection of relevant looks forthe user.

Usage of the smartphone application itself involves the user actuallymaking selections that lead to the determination of a color, andperforming interactive communication with the dispenser, such as sendingthe recipe to the dispenser and tracking the status of the dispenser(such as inventory and remaining volume of the cartridges in thedispenser). The smartphone application also performs interactivecommunication with the cloud platform. For instance, the smartphoneapplication can receive the selection of relevant looks are describedabove, and it can also provide direct user feedback from the user on thelooks the cloud platform previously sent and it can notify the cloudplatform on the colors and recipes actually selected by the user anddispensed by the dispenser. Such feedback can provide a form of machinelearning to the cloud platform and improve the algorithms used by thecloud platform.

[Personalized Lipstick Ecosystem]

FIG. 17 shows the above-described ecosystem (1700) that is built onproposing a trending lipstick color to the consumer after havinganalyzed trends on social media by combining favorite colors taste,geolocation, favorite influencers, past selection and likes. It givesthe opportunity to the consumer to pick a color based on a look,virtually try it and adjust it if necessary to finally produce theformula on the spot with a connected dispenser. It is also possible topropose a color based on the user's outfit digitalized with a selfiepicture. The consumer can save the most favorite colors and share itwith his virtual community.

FIG. 17 shows that a user smartphone ultimately delivers a recipe to thedispensing device via a smartphone application (“app”). The smartphoneapp interacts with both the connected dispenser and a cloud platform.Prior to a user performing normal operations (usage) of the smartphoneapp, the app needs to be setup (1710) with setup information forconfiguring a user profile. The app setup can be based on the followingsetup inputs.

-   -   Questionnaire at onboarding (such as favorite color)    -   Social media credentials (like Instagram, twitter, Facebook)    -   Favorite influencers to follow color    -   Geolocation based on local fashion    -   Environment data (uv index, pollution, humidity, pollen)

The setup inputs are used during regular usage of the app on thesmartphone, but they are also transmitted to a cloud platform, which maybe an external server device that is connected via the Internet.

The actual usage of the smartphone app (1720) includes selecting a modefor lipstick selection. In the present example, the modes include a modefor selecting a social media trend recommendation by algorithms that areexecuted in the cloud platform (discussed later in more detail). Anothermode allows the user to create their own lipstick color using a widevariety of color options.

Another mode may allow the user to match a lipstick color to their“look” based on selfie picture. In this example, the shade and finishselection on proposed picture is extracted. The user can virtually tryon the lipstick in real time, the user can adjust the color presented.When the user is satisfied with the color, the user can touch a buttondisplayed on the app to dispense the formula and an internal neuralnetwork will decompose the color requested into different colorcartridge dose. After the recipe is sent to the dispenser and thelipstick shade is dispensed, the user can apply the lipstick.

Following use of the lipstick, the user can use the app to provide afeedback if she/he liked the rendering or not. The user can also saveher favorite look and color to reuse later on, and the user can sharethe look and color on the web via a social media platform.

The cloud platform implements functions shown in 1730, such as aworkflow of remote algorithms and an improvement process.

In the workflow performed by the cloud platform, social media networkpersonal accounts (influencers, most trending looks) may be scraped fordata related to lipstick colors. The cloud platform may performanalyzing of one or more collected images to extract average make upcolor (lip, foundation, hair color) by using a deep learning algorithmto segment lip finishes of make up. For instance, the cloud platform mayaccomplish this by first detecting lips in a plurality of images using aknown technique in the art (such as that described in U.S. Pat. No.5,805,745, which is incorporated herein by reference). The cloudplatform may then perform comparisons of an extracted color with colorsmost liked by one or more communities of users while also taking intoaccount the setup inputs of the user received from the user's smartphonedevice. Taking into account all of the collected data, the final step isfor the cloud platform to send to the user the results of the analysisin the form of the above-noted selection of relevant looks.

In the improvement process performed by the cloud platform and thesmartphone app, the user can save her favorites looks and “like” thepopular color to enrich the scraping algorithms for a relevantrecommendation at a later time. The cloud platform can further aggregateall of the users' feedback, and the platform can send to new users themost trending area per localization.

The dispenser operations in block 1740 are already described in detailabove, but they are summarized as follows. The dispenser receives acommand to dispense a certain proportion of each cartridge. Thedispenser dispenses on the top part and user can mix it to obtain thedesired color. The dispenser send back inventory left of formula to theconsumer app to make sure only dispensable colors are available in theUI when the user makes a selection.

FIG. 18A shows an example flow of operations in the above-describedecosystem for dispensing a personalized lipstick shade from the appperspective. In step 1810, the user may select a “mode” as discussedabove, which may be a mode for selecting a social media trendrecommendation by the algorithms that are executed in the cloud; allowthe user to create their own lipstick color using a wide variety ofcolor options; or allow the user to match a lipstick color to their“look” based on selfie picture.

Step 1820 shows an example of a display when the mode is chosen forselecting a trending look powered by an AI algorithm of the cloudplatform. Step 1820 also shows that a menu is provided at the bottom ofthe interface to allow the user to switch between the above-describedmodes.

Step 1830 shows an example of a display when the user has selected apotential shade and is allowed to adjust the shade using an appropriateadjusting mechanism such as a color palette or slider. The shade can beshown on the selfie of the user.

Step 1840 shows that after a color is ultimately selected by the user,the color is decomposed into a combination of the available colorscontained in the cartridges of the dispensing device, and then therecipe is transmitted to the dispensing device for dispensing.

FIG. 18B shows an additional flowchart on how the algorithms of thesmartphone app in the lipstick ecosystem may allow a user to view ashade of lipstick on the selfie of the user. A recipe prediction module1860 (“Module 2) may receive as inputs the device dispensing capability,which is the set of three lipstick ingredient cartridges currentlyinside the dispensing device. Another input may be the masstone color ofdilution mixes, which represent the actual color values that can beproduced by the ingredients in the cartridge. The output from Module 2is a list of recipes (actual dispensed amounts from each cartridge) anda corresponding RGB predicted masstone color resulting from each recipe.Module 1 (1870) can then perform projection of what the lipstick willlook like on their actual lips based on the RGB masstone color in arecipe and the color of the user's lips (liptone), which results in alist of recipes and a corresponding RGB applied color. The relationshipbetween the masstone color and the applied color based on the user'sliptone may be predetermined and stored in advance. Thus, what may bepresented to the user on the display is a palette based on a universe ofRGB colors as shown in 1890.

FIG. 18C further illustrates how the specific set of cartridges canresult in different shade universes to present to the user.

FIG. 18D shows how the “match my look” mode may operate on the app inthe lipstick ecosystem. At state 1881, a user may input a selfie imagethat includes the user's outfit. A recommendation may be generated indifferent ways based on recognition of the colors and/or type of outfitin the image. For instance, a first approach (“Approach 1”) at 1882 mayuse the 7 rules of color and harmony science to target forming a certaintype of relationship between the lipstick shade and the colors of theoutfit based on color wheel relationships as illustrated in Approach 1.Alternatively, in state 1883, a predetermine palette may be presentedbased on a make-up artist recommendation in view of a seasonal style ofthe outfit in combination with the color in the outfit.

FIG. 18E shows more details on how the recommendation engine forlipstick works based on the selfie of the user's outfit. In state 1891,probes may be set by the user at different points on the outfit, where asingle probe may have priority. In state 1892, a different color palettemay be assigned to each probe based on the make-up artist recommendationpalettes, or it could be based on a predetermined color wheelrelationship as was shown in FIG. 18D. As seen in state 1893, the outputmay recommend colors based on the set of cartridges installed in thedispensing device, and based on the number and priority of the probesthat the user decided to use. If desired, the user can also swipe tobrowse the options that would be available in other color wheels ifother sets of cartridges were used. This may prompt the user to purchasea new set of cartridges.

[Personalized Skincare Ecosystem]

FIG. 19 shows the above-described ecosystem (1900) that is built onproposing a skincare formulation to the user that is the most efficientfor the user based on the user's geolocation, environmental factor, UVcumulated exposure and clinical signed assessed with smartphone ordermatologist diagnosis. The system manages to adjust the activesproportion to obtain the most efficient recipe on a daily basis. Theuser can save their most favorite colors and share it with his virtualcommunity.

FIG. 19 shows that a user smartphone ultimately delivers a recipe to thedispensing device via a smartphone application (“app”). The smartphoneapp interacts with both the connected dispenser and a cloud platform.Prior to a user performing normal operations (usage) of the smartphoneapp, the app needs to be setup (1910) with setup information forconfiguring a user profile. The app setup can be based on the followingsetup inputs.

-   -   Questionnaire at onboarding (such as favorite color)    -   Skincare analysis by a dermatologist or by AI algorithms with a        selfie    -   Geolocation based on smartphone location detection function    -   Environment data (uv index, pollution, humidity, pollen)

The setup inputs are used during regular usage of the app on thesmartphone, but they are also transmitted to a cloud platform, which maybe an external server device that is connected via the Internet.

The actual usage of the smartphone app (1920) includes collectingenvironmental data based on geolocation and combine it with a smartphonediagnosis assessing clinical signs (wrinkles, dark spots, firmness,pores, fine lines, dullness).

The user can also collect data of a UV sensor, such as a wearable UVsensor as described in U.S. Pat. No. 10,060,787, incorporated herein byreference, that will actually give precise measurement of the cumulatedUV exposure received. Based on historical data of skin assessment andenvironmental factor, the app will process the ideal formulation tofight against your skin aging signs and prevent from environment. Whenthe user is satisfied with the formulation, the user can touch a buttondisplayed on the app to dispense the formulation and an internal neuralnetwork will decompose the formulation requested into differentcartridge ingredients. After the recipe is sent to the dispenser and theformulation is dispensed, the user can apply the formulation. The usercan provide feedback on their favorite formulations for a specificperiod of time.

The cloud platform implements functions shown in 1930, such as aworkflow of remote algorithms and an improvement process. In theworkflow performed by the cloud platform, Based on environmentalforecast on UV, pollen, pollution, temperature, specific notificationsare sent to the app user to adjust the recipe. For instance, there is aknown correlation between environmental conditions and skin aging (see“Assessing the impact of an aerial chronic urban pollution (UP) on somefacial signs of differently-aged Chinese men” at www.researchgate.net,and “The skin aging exposome” at www.jdsjournal.com). Additionally,giving an input of the geolocation of the user, which can provide an airquality determination using a tool such as Breezometer™ and a local UVindex forecast (or the UV exposure can be obtained based on a UV sensordescribed above), the cloud platform can adjust the recipe to addressenvironmental factors such as UV exposure and air quality. For instance,FIG. 20B below shows sample combinations of environmental factors andhow they correlate to the ingredients in the cartridges.

In the improvement process performed by the cloud platform and thesmartphone app, the user can save their favorites recipes that are themost efficient overtime or the best sensation on skin. The user can alsoshare with the community their recipes.

The cloud platform can further aggregate all of the users' feedback, andthe platform can send to new users the most trending formulizations areaper localization.

The dispenser operations in block 1940 are already described in detailabove, but they are summarized as follows. The dispenser receives acommand to dispense a certain proportion of each cartridge. Thedispenser dispenses on the top part and user can mix it to obtain thedesired color. The dispenser send back inventory left of formula to theconsumer app to make sure only dispensable ingredients are available inthe UI when the user makes a selection.

FIG. 20A shows an example flow of operations in the above-describedecosystem for dispensing a personalized skincare formulation from theapp perspective. In step 2010, the user may perform a skincare diagnosisas discussed above, which may be performed by taking a 360° selfiepicture, or a series of photos at different angles using the smartphonecamera capability. In step 2020, the app performs an analysis of theuser's skin to detect skin features, such as dark spots, wrinklesfirmness, pores, fine lines, dullness, etc. A method for performing deeplearning to perform training and execution of this type of detection isdiscussed in more detail below. Alternative known methods may be used aswell, such as those described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 10,325,146 and9,760,935, both of which are incorporated herein by reference.

Step 2030 shows the analysis results for one more of the skin featureswhich are analyzed. The results may be shown as a score, which may berelative to people in the user's age range. For instance, each of theskin features may be presented on a five point scale, and features whichrepresent a worse score than an average score may be highlighted as apriority for the user, while features which are better than the averagemay be presented as a strength.

Step 2040 shows that the app may present a recommended skincareformulation (“blend’) which addresses the user's priority skincareconcerns while taking into account the current environmental conditions.After the formulation is ultimately selected by the user, theformulation is decomposed into a combination of the available colorscontained in the cartridges of the dispensing device, and then therecipe is transmitted to the dispensing device for dispensing at step2050.

FIG. 20B shows an example of how a combination of differentenvironmental factors determined to be present for a user can lead todifferent dosage amounts from three different cartridges. In thisexample, the cartridges respectively include ingredients director todeep damage recovery, cellular renewing, and daily skin aggressorprotection (which may include an SPF ingredient and a pollutionprotection ingredient). In this example, a fixed dose of cartridge 1 mayalways be used for efficacy, while the proportions of the remainingcartridges vary based on the levels of UV or pollution that are present.

[Personalized Foundation Ecosystem]

FIG. 21 shows an eco-system 2100 that is used to dispense a personalizedfoundation for the user. The eco-system 2100 is using a deep learningalgorithm to measure with a smartphone the user skintone. By combiningwith environmental information or make up tutorials, the system canadjust along the year to deliver to the consumer always the bestfoundation color that matches your tanning level/skintone variation.Based on weather forecast and UV exposure, the device can also increaseskincare actives or SPF.

FIG. 21 shows that a user smartphone ultimately delivers a recipe to thedispensing device via a smartphone application (“app”). The smartphoneapp interacts with both the connected dispenser and a cloud platform.Prior to a user performing normal operations (usage) of the smartphoneapp, the app needs to be setup (2110) with setup information forconfiguring a user profile. The app setup can be based on the followingsetup inputs.

-   -   Questionnaire at onboarding (such as favorite color)    -   Detect the user's skintone with a 360° video and a skintone        algorithm    -   Geolocation based on smartphone location detection function    -   Environment data (uv index, pollution, humidity, pollen)

The setup inputs are used during regular usage of the app on thesmartphone, but they are also transmitted to a cloud platform, which maybe an external server device that is connected via the Internet.

The actual usage of the smartphone app (2120) includes collectingenvironmental data based on geolocation and combine it with a smartphonediagnosis assessing the skintone of the user. While methods ofdetermining a user's skintone for matching a foundation are known in theart, a method below related to a deep learning method will be discussedin detail. Depending on the user's skin condition, the app may determineto merge skincare actives with the foundation like SPF when theenvironmental conditions are not optimal. The app makes a determinationbased on the period of the year and the tanning level of the person toslightly adjust the foundation color to follow the skintone evolution.When the color is not perfecting the matching process, the user can senda feedback to the cloud to improve remotely the algorithms. In certaincases, the user may want to use the device to adjust primer color so asto achieve specific make up strategy by layering different colors.

The cloud platform implements functions shown in 2130, such as aworkflow of remote algorithms and an improvement process. In theworkflow performed by the cloud platform, Based on environmentalforecast on UV, pollen, pollution, temperature, specific notificationsare sent to the app user to adjust the recipe by adding SPF. The cloudplatform may shift the master skintone formula for the user that is sentwhen the tanning level of the consumer is different from the initialdiagnosis.

In the improvement process performed by the cloud platform and thesmartphone app, the user can save their favorites recipes that are themost efficient overtime or the best sensation on skin. The user can alsoshare with the community their recipes. The cloud platform can furtheraggregate all of the users' feedback, and the platform can send to newusers the most trending formulizations area per localization.

The dispenser operations in block 2140 are already described in detailabove, but they are summarized as follows. The dispenser receives acommand to dispense a certain proportion of each cartridge. Thedispenser dispenses on the top part and user can mix it to obtain thedesired color. The dispenser send back inventory left of formula to theconsumer app to make sure only dispensable ingredients are available inthe UI when the user makes a selection.

FIG. 22A shows an example flow of operations in the above-describedecosystem for dispensing a personalized foundation from the appperspective. In step 2210, the user may perform a skintone diagnosis asdiscussed above, which may be performed by taking a 360° selfie picture,or a series of photos at different angles using the smartphone cameracapability. In step 2220, the app performs an analysis of the user'sskin to detect the skintone and shade.

In step 2230, the app may present a recommended foundation (“blend’)which matches the user's skintone while taking into account the currentenvironmental conditions. After the foundation is ultimately selected bythe user, the foundation is decomposed into a combination of theavailable ingredients contained in the cartridges of the dispensingdevice, and then the recipe is transmitted to the dispensing device fordispensing at step 2240.

FIG. 22B provides more details on the method of performing theabove-described skintone diagnosis. At step 2211, the user performsvideo recording of themselves until face detection is achieved by thesmartphone app. At step 2212, face detection is performed according toknown methods. If no face is detected, an error message is displayed tothe user, and it may request changing an angle or position of the camerarelative to the user until face detection is achieved. Once facedetection is performed, pre-processing is performed on 10 frames ofvideo data, where a normalization process and zoom process is performedto assess the specific features on the user's face. Normalization is aprocess to align all frames according the same resolution, orientationwidth, lighting etc. Normalization is meant to make the framescomparable between each other and make sure that the main algorithm willbe functioning in the validated condition/range of operation and avoidany outlier data points. A skin tone prediction model is then run in atstep 2213 based on a median skin tone value detected in the 10 framesused for prediction. Additionally, a prediction noise assessment isperformed using a median approach to filter/average noise. If the noiseprediction is low, a LAB value of the skintone is used to determine theblend used to generate the foundation at the dispensing device. However,if the noise level is high, then a safety net backup questionnaire istriggered at step 2214, which asks a previous foundation that the userhas used. Then the color of the previous foundation is mapped to astored LAB value that is used to determine the blend used to generatethe foundation at the dispensing device.

FIGS. 22C-D shows additional details regarding how deep learning isperformed to cause the smartphone app (or the cloud platform) toestimate a skintone in an image. The same process may also be used tocause a device to estimate a skincare condition in an image. In FIG.22C, training is performed for the deep learning model. The inputs areprovided at stage 2221, where pictures (which could be 360 video selfiesor picture selfies) are input along with metadata associated with theinputted picture and external metadata. The metadata associated with thepicture may include a date and time (and/or season) along with anoptional GPS location and an indication if the picture is taken insideor outside. The external metadata may be historical climate data.Pre-processing is performed on the input images at stage 2222, which mayinclude face detection, centering and scaling, face recognition(depending on library availability), and lighting condition correction.At stage 2223, the deep learning model performs picture-wise training bylearning the features for skin tone estimation. The deep learning modelmay also perform frame selection to determine the scalar weight ofimportance of selected frames based on a group of images from the sameuser. The output of the deep learning model (2224) provides a weightedaverage of skin colors from the selected frames and weights from frameselection and post-processing. To adjust the accuracy of the model, ameasured skin color is input to the system for the actual user in theimages to train the deep learning model.

FIG. 22D shows the usage of the deep learning model after training hasreached an adequate level. This is referred to as “inference time” sincethe skin tone (or skin condition) will be inferred from images withoutbeing able to perform a truth measurement on the actual skin of theuser. It can be seen that the stages in FIG. 22D is the same except thatthere is no measurement of the user's skin color in the final stage.

[Smart Swappable Cartridge System]

The dispensing device described above allows for swapping the consumablecartridges in a smart and efficient manner. The cartridges (consumables)used in the above-described dispensing device are preferably managed insets (such as sets of three cartridges). For instance there could beseparate sets of cartridges for each of the lipstick, skincare, andfoundation applications described above. In the system, consumables setsequipped with smart chip or an electronic device configured to performdata storage and transmission/reception (such as NFC, RFID, or a contactchip). In the following description an NFC (Near Field Communication)tag will be mentioned, but the claims are not limiting to this example.Each cartridge has a different cosmetic attributes and a unique formulaidentifier that can identify attributes such as Shade/finish, Texture,and Skin/hair benefits. Attributes are stored on the integrated circuitat production and signed with an asymmetrical cryptographic algorithm.

As will be discussed in detail below, the NFC tag applied to thecartridges ensures the management of color universe for the user, multidevice use cases, and traceability. The tag will have two zones ofmemory: one zone for the production data (encoded during the fillingprocess); and one zone for the use where the device will encode theusage and follow up quantities. Additionally, the following securitymechanism have been implemented: (i) ensure the non-modification ofproduction data: sector edition are protected by password (secretpassword); (ii) ensure the non-duplication of the cartridge data in caseof diversion: adding a signature mechanism using MID (unique id of thetag, the data encoded, the secret key of the manufacture). The app usingthe device to read cartridge will then check that the signature comesfrom the manufacturing entity before allowing dispensing.

FIG. 23 shows a structure of the cartridge 2300, which is similar to thecartridge described above, but further includes a region 2310, which isan area where metallization is not allowed, and a NFC tag (smart chip)2320 which is adhered to the bottom of the cartridge in a manner suchthat it is flat and without edges.

FIG. 24 shows a data format of the data stored on the NFC tag on thecartridge. The “OFF” column is for an “offset”, which are thecoordinates of the data coded in hexadecimal. The “Page” representsconsecutive data array blocks because the system can only read/writeentirely one page at a time. It can be seen that the format includes atag identifier (Tag ID) and several fields. The data size for the dataincluded on the NFC tag is 56 bytes in the present non-limiting example,but it can also be more or less. The data format shows that there areinformation fields directed to production information and other fieldsdirected to usage tracking.

FIG. 25 shows a table that includes self-evident descriptions of thevarious fields contained in the data format of the NFC tag.Additionally, “base type” means the type of data: for example: u8 meansunsigned integer one 8 bits. “Ule16” means unsigned integer of 16 bits.“Length” and “page” are the coordinates and allocation required in thememory page of the NFC tag. For example “u8” is unsigned integer that iscoded on 8 bits, that will requires 8 bits memory space in the page 0location.

FIG. 26 shows a structure of the dispensing device 2600 that is equippedfor the smart swappable cartridge system. It can be seen that thedispensing device 2600 includes a contact/hall effect sensor 2610 thatdetects and counts a lid opening/closing cycle to trigger consumablereading and change detection operations. The device further includes acommunication interface 2620, which in this case is a specific NFCantenna, for each cartridge canal that can read and write informationonto the NFC tag of the cartridge at each dispensing.

FIG. 27 shows a handshake between the dispensing device 2600 and theuser smartphone device 2710. The various triggers for initiatingcommunication between the dispensing device and the smartphone mayinclude a connection being established between the devices (such as aBluetooth pairing), the lid of the dispensing device being opened, adispensing order from the smartphone app (such as one of the appsdescribed above), or a dispensing order directly input on the dispensingdevice. In response to the trigger, the handshake includes in step 1,reading a consumable status of the cartridges stored on the dispensingdevice and sending the status to the smartphone. At the same time, theuser experience is updated and sent to the smartphone. The “userexperience” refers to a context of the device with respect to the userviewing a specific interface displaying to the user a pop up when thelid is open, cartridge being empty, or the color wheel has the correctcolor available. In step 2, the smartphone may transmit or adjust adispensing command to the dispensing device. In step 3, the dispensingdevice may transmit the actual dispensing feedback to the smartphone. Instep 4, the smartphone may transmit an instruction to update the NFCtags on the cartridges when a dispensing session is complete.

FIG. 28 shows consumer app state machine which shows a process from theapp perspective of priming the cartridges before any use of thedispensing device. In an initial priming step 2810, some formula may bedispensed in a predetermined sequence and/or simultaneously from each ofthe cartridges to verify that dispensing can be performed from eachcartridge. In an extra priming step 2820, the user can practice clickingon a displayed color to control individual dispensing on command. Thismay be performed to assure that the correct color is detected in thecorrect canal within the device such that recipes can be assignedautomatically to the correct canal. Step 2830 shows a display, whenpriming is complete, of the status of the cartridges in the dispensingdevice.

Accordingly, the priming process can detect when a new cartridge hasbeen installed and it allows proper engagement with the plunger of thedispensing device and the formula contained in the cartridge so that aproper dose can be dispensed when an actual blend is being created.

Additionally, by detecting the exact cartridges that are installed, theset of cartridges (such as the set of three cartridges) can bedetermined, and the color attributes (or skincare attributes) that arepossible with the current set are automatically updated on the app.

Also, the app can perform consumable management by suggesting orautomatically performing cleaning of the pipes when a cartridge ischanged. The app can further adapt the formula universe in the userinterface function depending on what type of set of cartridges areinstalled.

Furthermore, the app state machine can detects inconsistent sets ormissing cartridges. It can propose to buy missing set to reach a result.It can automatically detect expiration dates of any cartridges. Also,since safety information is stored on the cartridge, it allows nativelymulti-user and multi-device capability since each separate usersmartphone will detect the information on the cartridge independently.

During priming, the cartridges can also be authenticated. A 32 bit hashcode is generated at production using a secret key of the manufacturerand the code is encoded onto the NFC tag of the cartridge. Thesmartphone includes a hardcoded secret key, which may be included in asoftware developer kit (SDK), to verify the hash code upon reading datafrom the NFC tag transmitted from the dispensing device. The smartphonemay also be hardcoded with the secret key if possible. A Unique ItemIdentification (UIID) tag may also be physically added to the cartridgeor NFC tag (in the form of a barcode for example) and read by thedispending device. If the process of authentication of the cartridgefails, the dispensing device may transmit the notification to thesmartphone.

In some rare cases, the user may encounter a cartridge where the NFC tagis not read by the machine (encoding error, tag destruction, device notin range, other defect). In this case the user has to be still able todispense formula and use his device as normal as possible. To ensurethis tolerant default mode, a recovery cartridge mode requiring the userto enter information of the cartridge will take over the operation. Theapplication relying on THE SDK will then create a virtual cartridge tocontinue the algorithm to dispense. This automatic triggered recoverymode will be turned off at the moment a new cartridge is inserted or theNFC is again in range.

FIG. 29 shows a method of managing a faulty cartridge NFC tag in theafore-mentioned scenario. If there is an error in reading data from theNFC tag, the process is started at step 2910 where the SDK installed onthe smartphone actives a recovery mode for a particular canal in thedispensing device. At step 2911, the SDK attempts to write a newproduction sequence (by a transmission to the tag via the dispensingdevice) on the tag based on the last value read. At step 2912 a, if thetag is written successfully, the process ends. However, at step 2912 b,if the tag fails to be rewritten, the process proceeds to step 2940. Atstep 2913, the app displays a message asking the user to verify that acartridge is in a proper channel (canal) and the dispensing deviceautomatically opens the lid at step 2914. In other words, if the problemwas that no cartridge was inserted, then this step will remedy thispossibility. At step 2915, the user confirms that a cartridge is in thechannel. If reading is still impossible, at step 2916, the user is askedto select a color of the cartridge matching with a sticker on thecartridge. At step 2917, the user is asked to input the batch ID and theserial number of the cartridge, and asked to verify if the cartridge isbrand new. At step 2918, the SDK creates a virtual cartridge for thechannel number. Dispensing operations can proceed based on the virtualcartridge being used a proxy for properly read NFC tag on the actualcartridge. At step 2919, the virtual cartridge will be stopped if thecartridge becomes suddenly readable for a predetermined number ofdispensing operations in a row, or if the whole set of cartridges ischanged.

[Dispensing and Auto-Cleansing System]

As the above-described system includes swapping cartridges of manydifferent types, a special cleaning mechanism that integrates with thestructure of the removable compact has been developed to provide aunique cleaning capability to enhance the user experience.

FIG. 30 shows a simplified side-view of an embodiment of the dispensingdevice 3000 shows that the dispensing device includes a retractableplate 3010 with holes 3020 for accommodating the dispensing ends of thecartridges 3030. The device includes a spring 3040 that when the springis uncompressed, the retractable plate in the “stable up position” andthe cartridge nozzles are hidden. The stable up position hides thenozzle tip and also reduces dust or contamination getting into thenozzle.

It can be seen that the retractable plate includes a side surface thatis bent at approximately 90 degrees to the top surface, which allows theplate to move downward into a slide groove 3050 of the body of thedispensing device.

FIG. 31A shows that when force is pushed down on the retractable plate,the spring is compressed and the retractable plate is in the “downposition.”

FIG. 31B then shows that when the removable compact/cup 3110 is placedatop the retractable plate, the “down position” allows the cartridgenozzles to be flush with the dispensing surface 3120 of the compact/cupsuch that the dispensed formula 3130 dispenses in a smooth manner ontothe dispensing surface.

With the above retractable plate mechanism in place, the method ofcleaning the surface of the compact will be described with reference toFIG. 32.

FIG. 32 shows that a cleaning formula reservoir 3250 is disposed betweenthe body of the dispensing device and the retractable plate. In the“stable down position” at state 3210, the dispensing end of the cleaningreservoir is below an opening in the retractable plate. When additionalforce is applied to the retractable plate at state 3220, the dispensingend of the cleaning reservoir becomes flush with the surface of thecompact and compression on the reservoir causes the cleaning formula tobe dispensed onto the surface of the compact as shown in state 3230.

Examples of the cleaning formula include soap, alcohol, or other knowncleaning solutions.

Each position described above may be achieved by manual force providedby the user. Alternatively, each position may be achieved byelectromechanical means such as a motorized actuator device as isunderstood in the art. The cleaning formula may be manually wiped,spread, and/or brushed and removed by the user.

FIG. 33 shows an alternative use of the retractable plate describe aboveto provide a method of flushing the cartridges of any remainingingredients or residues (shown as 3350 in state 3310). In state 3310,the dispensing device is shown in the stable down position. In state3320, when the compact is pushed down, the downward motion can betranslated to activation of the piston of the cartridge. This may allowthe user to use/flush the last remaining ingredients in the cartridgesif desired.

Thus, the foregoing discussion discloses and describes merely exemplaryembodiments of the present invention. As will be understood by thoseskilled in the art, the present invention may be embodied in otherspecific forms without departing from the spirit or essentialcharacteristics thereof. Accordingly, the disclosure of the presentinvention is intended to be illustrative, but not limiting of the scopeof the invention, as well as other claims. The disclosure, including anyreadily discernable variants of the teachings herein, define, in part,the scope of the foregoing claim terminology such that no inventivesubject matter is dedicated to the public.

What is claimed is:
 1. A system, comprising: a dispensing deviceconfigured to receive at least one cartridge that contains a cosmeticmaterial and to dispense a specified amount of the cosmetic materialfrom the cartridge into a receiving area, wherein the at least onecartridge includes an electronic communication and storage deviceconfigured to store data regarding the cosmetic material stored in thecartridge; and a mobile user device configured to perform communicationwith the dispensing assembly to receive information related to the datastored on the electronic communication and storage device and totransmit a command to cause the dispensing assembly to dispense thespecified amount of the cosmetic material, wherein the electroniccommunication and storage device stores data regarding (i) a productionprocess of the at least one cartridge that is created prior to the atleast one cartridge initially being inserted into the dispensing device,and (ii) a usage of the at least one cartridge after the at least onecartridge is inserted into the dispensing device.
 2. The systemaccording to claim 1, wherein the electronic communication and storagedevice is one of a near field communication (NFC) tag, a radio frequencyidentification (RFID) tag, and a contact chip.
 3. The system accordingto claim 1, wherein the dispensing device includes a communicationinterface for a canal of at least one cartridge is configured tocommunicate with the electronic communication and storage device.
 4. Thesystem according to claim 1, wherein the dispensing device includes asensor configured to detect and count an opening and closing of a lid totrigger a consumable reading and change detection process.
 5. The systemaccording to claim 4, wherein the trigger of the consumable reading andchange detection process initiates a communication process between thedispensing device and the mobile user device.
 6. The system according toclaim 4, wherein the at least one cartridge is a plurality ofcartridges, and the mobile user device receives information on thespecific set of the plurality of cartridges based on receiving datastored on the electronic communication and storage device for each ofthe plurality of cartridges.
 7. The system according to claim 6, whereinthe mobile user device automatically determines possible colorattributes or skincare attributes of that are possible based on the ofthe plurality of cartridges.
 8. The system according to claim 6, whereinthe mobile user device detects inconsistent or missing cartridges basedon the received information on the specific set of the plurality ofcartridges.
 9. The system according to claim 6, wherein the mobile userdevice is configured to authenticate the at least one cartridge as beingprovided by a specific manufacturer before allowing any dispensing tooccur by the dispensing device.
 10. A method implemented by a systemthat includes a dispensing device configured to receive at least onecartridge that contains a cosmetic material and to dispense a specifiedamount of the cosmetic material from the cartridge into a receivingarea, wherein the at least one cartridge includes an electroniccommunication and storage device configured to store data regarding thecosmetic material stored in the cartridge, and a mobile user device, themethod comprising: performing, by the mobile user device, communicationwith the dispensing assembly to receive information related to the datastored on the electronic communication and storage device andtransmitting a command to cause the dispensing assembly to dispense thespecified amount of the cosmetic material, wherein the electroniccommunication and storage device stores data regarding (i) a productionprocess of the at least one cartridge that is created prior to the atleast one cartridge initially being inserted into the dispensing device,and (ii) a usage of the at least one cartridge after the at least onecartridge is inserted into the dispensing device.